Our residents have spoken - Rochester is one of America’s Top 10 Favorite Places. They also think the city is underrated, but also one of the friendliest cities in America.

That’s what a recent reader survey conducted by respected Travel + Leisure magazine determined. The magazine asked readers what they liked most about their hometown or former hometown, and ranked the results among 38 cities across the country.

Rochester, NY came in at #10 with readers mentioning (among other things) the community’s outdoor activities, public market, and proximity to the Finger Lakes region.

In the ranking for America’s Friendliest City, Rochester came in at #17 with a reader noting, “people are genuine.” (Full disclosure, our neighbor Buffalo came in at number 1 - a challenge our community can surely undertake)!

Bring your appetite on your next visit to the Flower City. Readers ranked Rochester #16 when it comes to America's Favorite Cites for Food! For foodies, Rochester was recognized for its "craft beer, comfort food, and coffee roasters."

"Is Rochester “underrated?” At #7, we sure are! Readers cited Rochester’s museums, restaurants, public market, and nearness to the Finger Lakes as assets not particularly known to those outside the area.

And last (but most certainly) not least, Rochester was recognized on Travel + Leisure's list of America's Favorite Ski Destinations -- coming in at #6. Readers in this category recognized Bristol Mountain, a 1200 ft peak (the tallest drop between the Adurondacks and the Rockies) just south of Rochester.

The word is getting out, and Rochester residents (and former residents) are spreading the news. We’ve known all along that Rochester is OUR favorite city! And, we will continue to let others know—in a “friendly” way, of course.